Window 19 :: The Apostles - St. James the Less, St. Bartholomew, & St. John

Windows 17- 20 are the Windows of the Church. These windows show the shields of the Apostles. Each shield represents an event or verse for which that Apostle is famous. Often with these shields is also a symbol of that Apostle’s martyrdom. As a note, Paul is not here because the Twelve Apostles are a specific group that Paul, who is undoubtedly an apostle, is not a part of.

Taken as a group, these windows usher us into the Age of the Church. Here at the end of the sanctuary are the acts of those who came before us and, with the Holy Spirit, established God’s Church on Earth. Looking farther than this takes us to the back wall of the sanctuary, where the work of the Apostles continues to this day.

Panel 2 - St. James the Less’ Shield

This panel shows the shield of James the Less. James the Less is not to be confused with James, son of Zebedee, or James the brother of Jesus. St. James was martyred by stones, and some legends claim that he was sawed in half afterwards.

Panel 4, 5 - St. Bartholomew’s Shield and One Large Knife

These panels display the shield of St. Bartholomew., which displays three knives. A large knife is also displayed underneath the shield. These knives are in reference to the legend that St. Bartholomew was flayed before his crucifixion.

Panel 7, 8 - St John’s Shield and a Scroll

St. John’s shield displays a snake issuing from a cup. This image is from a popular miracle story where a poisoned cup of wine became a serpent. The scroll is likely a reference to St. John’s writings.